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Statement by Minister Goodale on the Public Report on the Terrorist Threat in Canada

Statement

OTTAWA – December 14, 2018 – Today, the Honourable Ralph Goodale, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, issued the following statement on the 2018 Public Report on the Terrorist Threat in Canada:

“Canada’s security and intelligence agencies constantly assess and reassess all data to be effective in keeping Canadians safe.

The terms “Sikh”, “Shia”, and “Sunni”, among others, were used to describe types of extremism in the 2018 Public Report on the Terrorist Threat to Canada. I am confident the terminology used in this report was never intended to encompass or malign entire religions.

While this terminology has been in use for many years, that does not mean it is sufficient or precise enough. Therefore, I have asked officials to conduct a review and make the appropriate changes to the language used throughout the government to describe extremism.

Words matter. We must never equate any one community or entire religions with extremism.

Canadians of all faiths and backgrounds have helped to build our country, and continue to be integral members of our communities and neighbourhoods. They contribute in inspiring a stronger, more equal, and compassionate Canada that we all strive for."

Contacts

Scott BardsleySenior Advisor for CommunicationsOffice of the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness613-998-5681scott.bardsley@canada.ca